BATTLE CREEK (WKZO AM/FM) — A 13-year-old boy is being called a hero by police for intervening between his sword wielding dad and his helpless mother after the man allegedly broke into their apartment early Thursday at the Teal Run Apartments on Battle Creek’s south side and assaulted her.
Battle Creek Police say the boy grabbed a kitchen knife and put himself between his mother and 35-year-old Anthony Maurice Whitlock, who was armed with what was reportedly a replica Samurai sword.
The boy’s action allowed his mother to briefly escape the slashing attack.
The boy then called 9-1-1, identifying his dad as the attacker, giving them the information needed to stop his car and take him into custody along King Highway near Kalamazoo.
Apparently the suspect was an ex-boyfriend who had fathered three children with the victim resulting in custody issues.
The woman was last listed in critical condition. Detective Todd Elliott says the suspect is in the Calhoun County Jail being held on assault with intent to murder and home invasion charges.
Whitlock has also been charged as a habitual offender because of previous assault and drug charges. That could result in longer sentences if he is convicted.
Formal arraignment and a bond hearing is set for Tuesday.
